Walk the dog to aid charity

Sophia Khan, from the charity, said: “Spring may not be in the air quite yet, but why not put a spring in your step instead and join staff and dogs from Blue Cross pet charity in Northiam for their annual fun dog walk, on Sunday April 7.

“The walk will take place between 10am and 1pm, starting at the charity’s centre at St Francis Fields.

“All money raised will go toward the care of all the homeless cats and dogs cared for at the centre every year.”

Claire Rowe, Blue Cross deputy centre manager in Northiam, said: “It’s a bit chillier than usual for the time of year, but we’re hoping that won’t put off our dedicated supporters from wrapping up warm and joining us with their dogs for a bracing walk to help raise much needed funds.

“There will be lovely hot refreshments to warm everyone up once it’s over!”

The walk takes place in the country footpaths and rural lanes around the picturesque village of Northiam and may include field walking and some stiles, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

A minimum donation of £5 per dog is requested or alternatively, sponsor forms are available from the centre – contact 0300 777 1510 for more information.

Centre manager Maria Marmo said: ““As numbers of unwanted pets sadly continues to rise, Blue Cross has started to explore new ways to help even more animals.

“Because we only have space for a certain number of cats and dogs here at the centre, finding volunteer fosterers locally and rehoming animals through our new Home Direct scheme have both been really important ways of allowing us to find happy new homes for even more pets.”

Blue Cross receives no government funding and relies entirely on public funding to continue providing veterinary care and finding happy new homes for thousands of poorly and homeless pets every year.

Local MP Greg Barker visited the centre earlier this year and urged people to support it.

To find out more or to make a donation, visit www.bluecross.org.uk

To keep up with all the latest news, follow the Blue Cross Northiam group on Facebook.